A. Lange & Söhne Lange 1 Time Zone 116.039 is a watch from the absolute highest level of traditional watchmaking. The 18-carat white gold case, the bright argenté dial and the characteristic asymmetrical layout of Lange 1 create an extremely elegant configuration. At the same time, the second time zone function gives the model a much more utilitarian character.
For many collectors, Lange 1 is one of those watch “bunnies” that you can chase for years. The Time Zone version perfectly shows why. On the one hand, it remains discreet and classic. On the other hand, it offers an exceptionally complex structure and the level of finishing typical of the Glashütte factory.
Reference 116.039 was presented in 2012. The dial is made of solid silver and has an argenté finish. In addition, there are gold applications and indexes, as well as rhodium-plated gold hands and elements made of thermally blue-tinted steel.
The effect is extremely subtle. The bright, silvery-white dial fits perfectly with the cool shade of white gold. Thanks to this, the watch is very elegant, but at the same time it does not look overly formal.
The classic Lange 1 layout has been expanded here with the Time Zone function. The larger dial is responsible for the main time, while the smaller one allows you to track the second time zone. Additionally, a ring with city names allows for quick reference to 24 time zones.
Moreover, the watch offers the characteristic large date, UP/DOWN power reserve indicator and day/night display. Despite so much information, the dial is still exceptionally harmonious and legible.
The case is 41.9 mm in diameter and 11 mm thick. It is made entirely of 18-carat white gold. This gives the watch a distinct presence on the wrist, but at the same time retains the elegant proportions characteristic of the Lange 1 family.
However, the real show begins when the clock is turned. Through the sapphire case back you can admire the in-house caliber L031.1. This is definitely one of those mechanisms that you can stare at for hours.
The hand-wound L031.1 consists of as many as 417 parts. The mechanism offers approximately 72 hours of power reserve and operates at a frequency of 21,600 oscillations per hour. In addition, Lange’s characteristic three-quarter board and extremely extensive hand finishing are used here.
It is the mechanism side that shows why A. Lange & Söhne occupies such a unique place in the world of haute horlogerie. Uncoated German silver, gold chateaus, blue screws and hand-engraved elements create a sight as impressive as the dial itself.
A. Lange & Söhne Lange 1 Time Zone 116.039 is a watch that is beautiful on both sides. From the front, it impresses with its characteristic asymmetry and cool colors. In turn, the cover side shows the mechanical craftsmanship for which the manufacture is famous.
Importantly from a collector’s point of view, reference 116.039 no longer belongs to the current A. Lange & Söhne collection. The manufacturer currently does not offer the Lange 1 Time Zone with a bright argenté dial in a white gold case.
Today’s Lange 1 Time Zone in white gold, ref. 136.029, comes with a black dial. However, the closest contemporary configuration in a cool, bright style is the platinum ref. 136.025 with rhodié dial. Thanks to this, the presented 116.039 remains a very characteristic combination of white gold and a light dial, which is no longer available today.
The service history is also a huge advantage of the offered example. In 2025, the watch underwent a complete overhaul directly at the manufacturer. The cost of the work performed was nearly EUR 6,000.
The watch is from 2016 and was originally bought in the Apart showroom. I am offering it with a set of original boxes and documents.
Very good condition. Only minor signs of use are visible.
